The Role of Teachers In Developing Critical And Creative Thinking Skills of Class Vii Students In Akidah Akhlak Subjects At Mts Riyadhul Ulum Sungai Pinyuh, Mempawah Regency, West Kalimantan

Abstract

This study aims to describe the role of teachers in developing critical and creative thinking skills of seventh grade students in Akidah Akhlak subject at MTs Riyadhul Ulum Sungai Pinyuh, Mempawah Regency, West Kalimantan. The problem discussed in this study includes identifying teacher strategies in stimulating students' critical thinking skills through analysis of teaching materials and problem solving, as well as teacher efforts in encouraging student creativity through innovative tasks and utilization of diverse learning media. This research uses a descriptive qualitative method with data collection techniques through observation of the learning process in the classroom, in-depth interviews with Akidah Akhlak teachers, and documentation of learning tools. The results showed that teachers play an active role in developing students' critical thinking skills through asking open-ended questions, encouraging students to analyze naqli and aqli arguments, and providing tasks that require evaluation and synthesis of information. In developing creativity, teachers apply strategies such as project assignments that involve making Islamic artwork, utilizing technology in material presentations, and giving students freedom in expressing their understanding of Akidah Akhlak concepts. Nevertheless, the study also identified challenges in implementation, such as time constraints and the heterogeneity of students' abilities. The implication of this research is the importance of continuous professional development of teachers in integrating learning strategies that are oriented towards developing students' critical and creative thinking skills in Akidah Akhlak subjects.